On April 8, 2025, the Saint Joseph University of Beirut (USJ) and the Université catholique de Lille (UCL) marked their 150^th anniversaries by signing a joint declaration celebrating their long-standing partnership and shared commitment to academic excellence. The declaration was signed in Beirut by USJ Rector, Prof. Salim Daccache, SJ, and UCL President-Rector, Prof. Patrick Scauflaire.

This symbolic visit by Prof. Scauflaire accompanied by Mr. Denis Vinckier, UCL’s General Secretary for the Instances and Coordinator of the 150^th anniversary celebrations, reinforced the deep ties between the two universities. By traveling to Beirut, UCL reaffirmed its strong commitment to a shared academic vision and future.

The signing ceremony brought together USJ’s Vice-Rectors, Deans, Directors, and its Secretary-General. In his welcoming remarks, Prof. Daccache emphasized that the declaration, initiated by Mr. Vinckier and enriched by USJ Vice-Rector for International Relations Prof. Carla Eddé, reflects the depth of a relationship that goes far beyond formal collaboration.

“Today’s visit holds deep symbolic meaning for us,” Prof. Scauflaire began. “When we marked our 150^th anniversary, we made a mutual promise to visit one another in celebration of this milestone. But this moment goes far beyond a simple agreement. We are here because this partnership truly matters to our institutions, to our shared mission, and to us personally.” He concluded, “Spoken words may fade with time, but written commitments endure.”

The joint declaration, read aloud by Prof. Scauflaire, Prof. Eddé, and Mr. Vinckier, celebrates 150 years of collaboration between USJ and UCL, and sets a renewed commitment to deepen the partnership through practical projects, interdisciplinary initiatives, and broader academic cooperation.

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Read also: L’USJ et l’Université catholique de Lille célèbrent 150 ans de partenariat et d’amitié académique